South Carolina GOP endorses Harris over party candidate Skelton in state House race

The South Carolina Republican Party executive committee on Saturday unanimously endorsed petition candidate Ed Harris, rather than incumbent Republican B.R. Skelton, in a state House race.

Harris and Skelton are vying to represent District 3, which covers Clemson, Central, Six Mile and surrounding areas, in the state House.

Pickens County GOP Chairman Phillip Bowers said the vote at a state executive committee meeting in Columbia was the first-ever GOP endorsement of a petition candidate over the Republican party nominee in a race for a South Carolina House of Representatives seat.

Skelton had challenged Harris' win of the June Republican primary. That win was overturned by state party Chairman Chad Connelly after Skelton filed a lawsuit. Connelly said he made the decision after questions arose about the manner in which Harris filed his statement of economic interest.

The action Saturday came after Harris asked the executive committee to review Connelly's action. In endorsing Harris, the state GOP executive committee said they were acting in accordance with the will of the voters.

"The executive committee felt Harris' situation is unique," Bowers said. "He was the only candidate in South Carolina removed from the ballot after winning a party primary."

Skelton has charged that Harris lied about filing a statement of economic interest. When Skelton filed a lawsuit making that allegation, he simultaneously sued Bowers.

Harris said is he humbled by the executive committee vote and looks forward to Election Day on Nov. 6.

"I have tried to maintain a high ethical standard in this contest," Harris said. "I look forward to the decision of the voters. I am focused on issues, not attacking my opponent."

Harris also has received the endorsement of the Pickens County GOP.

Skelton could not be reached for comment Sunday. He has been a state representative for 10 years and is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.